Meet Stephanie Sy ‘98, CIS alumna, author, and storyteller whose work celebrates cultural identity and resilience. Born in the Philippines and raised in Hong Kong, Stephanie now lives in Vancouver, where she writes children’s books inspired by her Filipino-Chinese-Canadian heritage. Her debut picture book, A Roof!, explores the Filipino spirit of bayanihan—community solidarity in the face of adversity.
Name: Stephanie Sy ’98
Graduating Year: 1998
Current place of residence: Vancouver
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I was born in the Philippines but grew up in Hong Kong. My sister (Karla Sy, “99) and brother (Mark Sy, “04) attended CIS! I now live in Vancouver, B.C., and when I’m not writing I’m planning my next hike or meal.
When did you discover your passion for writing?
While I enjoyed reading and writing throughout my childhood, my passion for writing children’s stories emerged during the pandemic. While everyone was exploring new hobbies, such as making sourdough bread, I decided to form a virtual writing group with my cousin and sister. My goal was to work on a passion project I had always wanted to pursue: interviewing domestic workers and writing about their lives. When I experienced interview fatigue, my sister and cousin encouraged me to write a children’s story, just as they were. Their support helped me find my voice in children’s literature, ultimately leading to me becoming a published author.
How has your identity as a Filipino-Chinese-Canadian shaped your writing and storytelling?
Growing up in Hong Kong’s international community as a third-culture kid, I learned to navigate the spaces between my identities. At home, my parents spoke Hokkien, while at school, we learned in English, Mandarin, and French. Outside of school and home, it was Cantonese. My narratives explore this cultural intersection—not just the environments I’ve experienced but also the inherited memories and traditions. I aim to inspire young readers with stories featuring diverse perspectives.
Can you describe your writing process for “A Roof!”? Did you encounter any challenges while writing this story?
I wrote A Roof! after receiving my COVID booster shot on January 1, 2022. Feeling fatigued, I spent most of the day in bed on my phone, reading about Super Typhoon Rai, which had struck the Philippines. I was saddened that it occurred during the holidays, but it reminded me that typhoons frequently bring destruction throughout the year. However, the bayanihan mentality—a community working together for the greater good—enables communities to recover, rebuild, and heal. This inspired me to write a children’s story that shares what life is like in this part of the world. I drafted the initial version on my phone.
After refining the draft, I shared it with my writing critique group and then sent it to my agent, who submitted it to editors. Ultimately, I signed a two-book deal with Kokila, an imprint of Penguin Random House.
The concept of bayanihan is central to your book. Can you elaborate on its significance in Filipino culture and how it shaped your narrative?
Bayanihan, the Filipino spirit of a community working together for the greater good, lies at the heart of my book. While the devastation of Super Typhoon Rai inspired the story, the narrative highlights how communities embody bayanihan by coming together to rebuild after disasters. This cultural value is especially crucial in the Philippines, where typhoons regularly strike and government resources are limited. The story illustrates how bayanihan transforms tragedy into resilience, as neighbors support each other in rebuilding their lives and communities.
Looking ahead, what are your personal goals as a writer? Are there any upcoming projects or themes you’re excited to explore in your future writing?
I have several exciting projects in the pipeline. You Can’t Tame a Tiger, the first children’s story I wrote during our pandemic writing group sessions, will be published this year. Next year, I’m releasing two picture books set in Hong Kong: Jia Has a Dog Problem and The Majestic Banyan Tree and The Green Tong Lau. The following year, a picture book about my nephew, Ellis, and my grandmother called The Quest for The Longest Noodle will be released.
Additionally, during the Hong Kong Literary Festival, I was invited to host a workshop for Migrant Writers of Hong Kong. Their passion for telling their stories inspired me, and I hope to help them publish a collection of their short stories.
What advice would you give to young writers who aspire to tell their own stories, especially those rooted in their cultural backgrounds?
Embrace your voice by sharing your unique experiences and perspectives authentically. Share your work with others and be open to editing and feedback. Reading widely can also enrich your understanding and inspire your writing. Your voice is important and your stories have the power to inspire others!
Quickfire round – give us the first answer you think of
- Your best and worst subject at CIS: Best – English, worst – chemistry!
- Your favourite childhood book: I loved all of Enid Blyton’s books, advancing through her books as I got older. I especially loved The Magic Faraway Tree series.
- A hobby you wish you had more time for: I haven’t painted in a very long time, I’d love to find the time to pick it up again.
- Your celebrity crush: Cillian Murphy
- A song that always puts you in a good mood: How about two?! Earth, Wind and Fire – September; Daryl Hall & John Oates – You Make My Dream
What is your favourite memory from CIS?
Hanging out with friends on the roof and everywhere else! Including haircuts in the bathroom…
